Golden Mean, Golden Ratio Golden Section Golden Mean, Golden Ratio

Golden Ratio Definitions –Golden Mean is a line divided into two parts so that the smaller line has the same proportion, or ratio, to the larger line as the larger line has to the whole line. Golden Rectangle-has sides that match this ratio-the shorter sides are half as long as the longer sides. This ratio is considered to be most pleasing to the eye.

Golden Ratio in Nature The golden ratio is found in nature

This ratio has been used by mankind for centuries Its use may have started as early as with the Egyptians in the design of the pyramids,                                                                                                 

Greek Architecture The Greeks recognized it as "dividing a line in the extreme and mean ratio"and used it for beauty and balance in the design of architecture

Renaissance The Renaissance artists knew it as the Divine Proportion and used it for beauty and balance in the design of art

Golden Ratio in paintings

Summary The Golden Section is a simple tool that may be used to enhance the meaning and beauty of an architectural work or visual art.  Most of all, though, the Golden Section reminds us that proportions are important to all works of art, and that we must learn to look at nature and at the masters of the past.